Emergency regulations for veterinarians prescribing of controlled substances containing opioids are being promulgated as emergency regulations to address the opioid abuse crisis in Virginia. Regulations for the management of acute pain include requirements for the evaluation of the patient, limitations on quantity and dosage, and record-keeping. Regulations provide requirements for prescribing an opioid beyond 14 days for chronic pain and certain chronic conditions, and allow for prescribing of buprenorphine in a dosage, quantity, and formulation appropriate for an animal species and size. Finally, there are requirements for continuation of treatment and for the content of the medical record.

Chapters Affected

Only affects this chapter.

Exempt from APA

No, this action is subject to the Administrative Process Act and the standard
executive branch review process.